Diethanolamine, Diolamine, DEA, 111-42-2

Diethanolamine, Diolamine, DEA, 111-42-2

DIETHANOLAMINE (DEA)

CAS 111-42-2 | C₄H₁₁NO₂

SECTION 1: PRODUCT IDENTITY AND DEFINITION

Description: Diethanolamine (DEA) is a secondary amino alcohol belonging to the ethanolamine family. It is a colorless to pale yellow viscous liquid or low melting solid at room temperature (melting point ~28°C). It is highly hygroscopic and miscible with water, alcohol, and acetone. DEA is widely used as a gas purifying agent, corrosion inhibitor, emulsifier, lubricant, and organic synthesis intermediate. It is also employed in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and the production of surfactants, herbicides, and morpholine.

SECTION 2: SYNONYMS AND OTHER NAMES

SECTION 3: CHEMICAL STRUCTURE AND PROPERTIES

Structural Formula:

    HO - CH₂ - CH₂ - NH - CH₂ - CH₂ - OH

    2,2'-Iminodiethanol (Diethanolamine)

Key Characteristics:

• Viscous liquid or low melting crystalline solid

• Highly hygroscopic

• Miscible with water and polar organic solvents

• Weak base with excellent acid gas absorption properties

• Reacts with acids to form salts and with fatty acids to form amides/esters

• Absorbs carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide from gas streams

• Biodegradable

SECTION 4: PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

SECTION 5: REACTIVITY AND STABILITY

SECTION 6: APPLICATIONS

SECTION 7: PREPARATION METHOD

Synthesis Route:

Diethanolamine is produced by the reaction of ethylene oxide with aqueous ammonia:

C₂H₄O + NH₃ → Monoethanolamine (MEA)
C₂H₄O + MEA → Diethanolamine (DEA)
C₂H₄O + DEA → Triethanolamine (TEA)

Process Steps:

1. Ethylene oxide and ammonia water are fed to the reactor

2. Condensation reaction at 30-40°C and 70.9-304 kPa pressure

3. Formation of a mixture of mono-, di-, and triethanolamine

4. Dehydration and concentration at 90-120°C

5. Vacuum distillation to separate the three products by boiling point

6. Final product purity up to 99%

Alternative Method:

• Formaldehyde cyanohydrin catalytic hydrogenation (also produces ammonia)

SECTION 8: ADVANTAGES AND BENEFITS

SECTION 9: REGULATORY STATUS

SECTION 10: SAFETY AND TOXICOLOGICAL PROFILE

GHS Classification:

• R22 – Harmful if swallowed

• R38 – Irritating to skin

• R41 – Risk of serious damage to eyes

• R48/22 – Harmful; danger of serious damage to health by prolonged exposure if swallowed

Safety Recommendations:

• S26: In case of eye contact, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice

• S36/37/39: Wear suitable protective clothing, gloves, and eye/face protection

• S46: If swallowed, seek medical advice immediately and show this container or label

• PPE: Chemical resistant gloves (nitrile/butyl), safety goggles, protective clothing, and respiratory protection

• Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area; separate from acids and oxidizing agents

First Aid Measures:

SECTION 11: STORAGE AND SHELF LIFE

Packaging Options:

• 200 kg carbon steel drums

• 1,000 kg IBC containers

• Bulk tanker deliveries

SECTION 12: QUALITY CERTIFICATES AND STANDARDS

SECTION 13: DISCLAIMER AND LEGAL NOTICE

DISCLAIMER (LEGAL NOTICE): This Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a binding specification. The values stated herein are based on typical laboratory results. The user is solely responsible for determining the suitability of the product for the intended application and for ensuring compliance with all local regulations. A current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and Certificate of Analysis (COA) should be requested prior to use. May cause severe eye damage and skin irritation; appropriate protective measures should be taken. IARC Group 2B classification indicates possible carcinogenicity. This document does not grant any license or patent rights for use of the product.